French Conversation · Level 160
30 words
French word
infâme
Pronunciation
IPA/ɛ̃fam/
Meaning
- adjectivedespicable
Example
C'est infâme de mentir à ta sœur.
It is despicable to lie to your sister.
More examples
Il a commis un acte infâme sans le regretter.
He committed a vile act without regretting it.
Core concept
A person or deed marked as a stain on moral conscience.
Common phrases
acte infâme
vile act
crime infâme
vile crime
mensonge infâme
vile lie
Similar words
odieux: So hateful that it provokes anger and intense disgust.
méprisable: So lacking in decency that it deserves contempt.
scandaleux: So outrageous that it draws public condemnation and causes a stir.
honteux: Dishonorable and shameful, causing embarrassment or disgrace.
Definition in French
Qualifie une personne ou une action abjecte, qui inspire le dégoût moral.
Word origin
French infâme comes from Latin infamis, formed from in- meaning 'not' and fama meaning 'reputation', and entered French through Old French.
Usage tips
- Infâme is a strong condemnation, so its occasional ironic or exaggerated use still sounds forceful and context-sensitive.